Austin, TX — November 11, 2024, one person was killed and another person was injured in a car accident at 6:30 p.m. on Montopolis Drive.

Authorities said the victim was a pedalcyclist who was struck by a vehicle on Montopolis Drive, near Crumley Lane.

The victim, who has not yet been identified by police, was pronounced dead at the scene, according to authorities.

The driver of the vehicle, who also has not been identified, suffered minor injuries, authorities said.

Authorities do not believe alcohol played a role in the crash.

Austin police still are investigating what caused the crash.

Commentary by Attorney Michael Grossman

The recent collision on Montopolis Drive, where a pedalcyclist was killed and another person was injured, brings up important questions about how and why this accident occurred.

1. Did the authorities thoroughly investigate the crash?

Police have stated that the investigation of the crash is ongoing. While this is a critical step, the depth and thoroughness of official investigations can vary significantly. Key aspects such as witness statements, accident reconstruction and environmental factors like lighting, road conditions and traffic signage need to be carefully examined.

Given the resources and time constraints that law enforcement agencies often face, an independent investigation may be necessary to ensure a complete understanding of the crash. This can provide additional clarity for the affected families.

2. Has anyone looked into the possibility that a vehicle defect caused the crash?

While human error and environmental factors are commonly considered, the possibility of a vehicle defect is too often ignored. Mechanical issues such as brake failures, steering malfunctions or sensor errors can contribute significantly to collisions. Often, the involved vehicles should undergo a thorough inspection to rule out or identify any defects that might have played a role.

That is why it is important to preserve the vehicle to allow for such an examination. Unfortunately, this step is often missed when vehicles are quickly moved to restore traffic flow. A proper forensic review is usually an afterthought. The problem with rushing is that people end up being blamed for crashes that aren't their fault.

3. Has all the electronic data relating to the crash been collected?

Modern vehicles are equipped with engine control modules that capture critical data such as speed, braking, and steering inputs leading up to a crash. Additionally, nearby cameras, dashcams or even mobile devices may contain footage or data that sheds light on the sequence of events.

Collecting and preserving this data promptly is crucial to avoid its loss. Experienced investigators know that obtaining this information provides a comprehensive picture of the crash.

A thorough investigation that considers the possibility of vehicle defects and gathers all of the electronic data is the only way that accident victims and their families get all of the answers they deserve.